Just weeks out from the start of the AFF Suzuki Cup the Philippines have pulled off a major coup with the signing of Sven-Goran Eriksson to lead the nation at the regional showpiece.

The Swedish coach is amongst the most storied names in global football, having taken charge of a host of leading European clubs, including Roma, Lazio, Benfica and Manchester City as well as leading the England national team at both the 2002 & 2006 FIFA World Cups.

The 70-year-old is also no stranger to Asian football having spent four years in China with Guangzhou R&F, Shanghai SIPG and Shenzhen and is arguably the biggest name to have ever taken charge of a Southeast Asian nation.

Speaking at the AFF Suzuki Cup Trophy Tour in Manila, Azkals manager Dan Palami announced the appointment calling Eriksson ‘one of the most legendary coaches of all time.’

Palami also confirmed that the Swede will lead the Azkals through to January’s AFC Asian Cup and later told Filipino website, the Inquirer, that the appointment presents the opportunity to turbo-charge football in the Philippines.

“We will pull out all the stops to achieve our goals and we’re very excited to have Sven on board.

“With his reputation, experience and knowledge, there’s no question he can help the team reach the next level. There were a lot of countries and clubs interested in Sven’s services but we were able to sell him the idea of leaving a legacy here in the Philippines.”

It’s understood that Scott Cooper, who led the Azkals to impressive recent draws against both Bahrain and Oman, will stay on in a coaching and technical capacity.

Photos: Getty Images, PFF